34 MPG combined. That’s the headline for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Premier 1.4L, and it’s a figure that lands this compact sedan squarely in the “sensible” category. But don’t let “sensible” fool you into thinking it’s boring. This Cruze offers a blend of fuel efficiency, features, and a surprisingly refined driving experience that appeals to budget-conscious drivers who still appreciate a touch of premium flair. This car makes sense if you prioritize long-term cost savings without sacrificing modern amenities like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, and advanced safety features.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Cruze Premier achieves 30 MPG in the city and an impressive 40 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go reality of urban commuting, where the Cruze’s small-displacement turbocharged engine and responsive six-speed automatic transmission work together to maximize efficiency even when acceleration is required.

The 40 MPG highway rating is where this car truly shines, making it an excellent choice for road trippers and those with longer commutes. You’ll notice reduced fuel consumption on open highways, thanks to the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Premier at exactly $1,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions in which you drive.

Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and using premium fuel when it’s not required can all negatively impact your fuel economy and increase your annual spending. Consider this $1,300 figure a benchmark, a target that reflects the car’s optimized performance under ideal conditions.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers are solid, real-world fuel economy can differ. Drivers have reported figures ranging from the high 20s to the mid-40s, depending on driving style and conditions. Achieving the advertised 40 MPG on the highway requires disciplined driving: maintaining a consistent speed, avoiding unnecessary acceleration, and using cruise control whenever possible.

In city driving, avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Gentle and predictable driving will yield the best results. The Cruze Premier’s combination of a relatively lightweight design, aerodynamic profile, and efficient engine, along with its standard low rolling resistance tires, helps it achieve those high MPG figures in real-world driving. Be mindful of these factors and adjust your driving accordingly.

How it compares

The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Premier occupies a competitive space in the compact sedan market. The Honda Civic EX, for example, delivers around 31 MPG combined, while the Toyota Corolla LE hovers closer to 32 MPG. These numbers are comparable, but the Cruze Premier is known for its blend of fuel efficiency and available features for the price. The Mazda3 i Grand Touring, known for its sporty handling, achieves approximately 33 MPG combined. It’s a trade-off: sacrificing a single MPG for more engaging handling. For buyers focused purely on maximizing fuel savings, the Nissan Sentra FE+ S, rated at 34 MPG combined, presents another alternative. However, the Cruze Premier offers a more refined interior and a broader range of technology options. Buyers seeking that mix of fuel efficiency and premium features choose the Cruze Premier. Explore all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see where the Cruze Premier stands within the brand’s lineup. Also consider how the specific engine and trim of this model impacted CRUZE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The 1.4L turbocharged engine in the Cruze Premier is designed to deliver its torque efficiently at lower RPMs. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal, especially when accelerating from a stop. Gradual and smooth acceleration will prevent the turbocharger from working overtime and reduce fuel consumption.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tires at least once a month and ensure they are inflated to the pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker. This is an easy and often overlooked step that can significantly improve your MPG.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Every extra pound you carry in your car requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and backseat to lighten the load. You might be surprised at how much of a difference this can make, especially on shorter trips.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing the fluctuations in throttle input that can waste fuel. Engage cruise control on long stretches of highway driving to achieve optimal fuel efficiency. Be sure to disengage cruise control when going downhill to further conserve fuel if you do not want the car to automatically engage the accelerator to maintain speed.